Offaly Young Musician Performs With U2

Lauren Mathews performed alongside the band for their 50th anniversary celebration.

Lauren Mathews (16), a Transition Year student from Killina who attends Killina Presentation Secondary School, recently enjoyed a once-in-a-lifetime opportunity when she performed alongside U2 as part of a special ensemble celebrating the band's 50th anniversary.

Lauren was one of 32 young musicians selected to represent their county in a unique all-island orchestra brought together by Music Generation. The talented group, comprising musicians from every county in Ireland, joined U2 on stage at Mount Temple Comprehensive School, the place where the band first met and began their remarkable musical journey.

A dedicated cello student at The Academy of Music in Tullamore, Lauren was nominated by Music Generation Offaly to take part in the prestigious event and described the experience as unforgettable.

Speaking about her experience, Lauren said "I really enjoyed meeting all the new people who travelled from other counties to perform.  I made lots of new friends that I hope I will see again in the future.
It didn’t really hit me what was happening until I saw all the U2 fans waiting outside the gates of Mount Temple School.
I was so nervous to play in front of so many people but once I got up on the stage I realised that it wasn’t as hard as I thought it would be.
It was so cool to get to meet the band members. They were really nice to us all. I thought it was really funny when they said “every now and then we like to hang out with real musicians.”
I love playing the cello and I couldn’t believe it when I found out that the artists we were playing with were U2."

Lauren’s parents, Wendy and Stefan Mathews, say they could not be prouder of their daughter’s achievement, describing the opportunity as a truly life-changing experience for Lauren. Watching her share the stage with U2 as part of the Music Generation 32-county orchestra was a special and emotional moment for all the family, made even more significant by the years of dedication and hard work she has invested in her music. The experience has not only boosted her confidence as a young musician but has also created memories and friendships that will stay with her for years to come.

Martina Burgoyne from The Academy of Music said: "It was such a privilege for the Academy of Music to see one of our students, Lauren Mathews, take part in such a significant musical occasion. To be selected from across the county and given the opportunity to perform alongside one of Ireland's most internationally renowned bands is a wonderful achievement and a testament to Lauren's musical ability, commitment and dedication. Lauren has been a student of Cello and Flute at the Academy for some years now.
Experiences such as this provide young musicians with memories and opportunities that can stay with them for a lifetime. A big thank you to
Music Generation for affording Lauren this opportunity in her musical journey."

The performance held particular significance as Music Generation was founded through the support of U2 and The Ireland Funds, with the band continuing to champion opportunities for young people to access high-quality music education and performance experience

Geraldine Relph, Music Development Officer with Music Generation Offaly said: "We are incredibly proud of Lauren and all she has achieved. To be selected for this prestigious 32-county orchestra is a wonderful recognition of her talent, commitment and hard work. The opportunity to perform alongside U2 made the occasion even more special, given the band's unique connection to Music Generation. Their vision and support have helped create life-changing opportunities for young musicians across Ireland, and Lauren's experience is a perfect example of the impact that music education can have."

Music Generation Offaly is part of Music Generation, Ireland's National Music Education Programme, initiated by Music Network and co-funded by U2, The Ireland Funds and The Department of Education and Skills. Music Generation Offaly is managed by Offaly Music Education Partnership, led by Laois & Offaly ETB in partnership with Offaly County Council.